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Song Mango identifies, profiles, analyzes and celebrates the greatest, most influential Rock-N-Roll songs of all time, both past and present.Wed, 06 Mar 2019 11:22:50 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.10The QueenTest™ Vol. 2 – The Soaring '70shttps://songmango.com/the-queentest-vol-2-the-soaring-70s-2/
Mon, 25 Feb 2019 15:09:22 +0000https://songmango.com/?p=650013The second volume of the QueenTest™ dives into the band's stellar output from the '70s.

]]>The overwhelming consensus of our readers is that we made the first volume of the QueenTest™ too easy. Some have even said, "way too easy!" Go ahead and pat yourselves on the back but don't get too comfortable. This second volume – focusing on Queen's stellar output from the '70s – will prove much more challenging, even for the hardest-core fans.

The debut of the QueenTest™ just dipped a toe into the pool, the second volume throws you right into the deep end. To get a passing grade, you will need to be intimately familiar with the band's early material – from the debut album, Queen (1973), through Jazz (1978).

Now it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Don't forget to turn up the volume!

Good luck, ladies and gents.

The QueenTest™ Vol. 2 – The Soaring '70s

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The overwhelming consensus of our readers is that we made the first volume of the QueenTest™ too easy. Some have even said, "way too easy!" Go ahead and pat yourselves on the back, but don't get too comfortable. This second volume – focusing on the band's stellar output from the '70s – will be much more challenging, even for the hardest-core fans.

The debut of the QueenTest™ just dipped a toe into the pool, the second volume throws you right into the deep end. To get a passing grade, you will need to be intimately familiar with the band's early material – from the first album, Queen (1973), through Jazz (1978).

Now it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Don't forget to turn up the volume!

Good luck, ladies and gents.

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Queen0%

You got 1 right out of 10 (10%) –You should revisit Queen's early material as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the band's debut, Queen (1973) through Jazz (1978). You'll be glad you did, and you'll be sure to do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 2 right out of 10 (20%) –You should revisit Queen's early material as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the band's debut, Queen (1973) through Jazz (1978). You'll be glad you did, and you'll be sure to do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 3 right out of 10 (30%) – You should revisit Queen's early material as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the band's debut, Queen (1973) through Jazz (1978). You'll be glad you did, and you'll be sure to do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 4 right out of 10 (40%) – You should revisit Queen's early material as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the band's debut, Queen (1973) through Jazz (1978). You'll be glad you did, and you'll be sure to do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 5 right out of 10 (50%) – You should revisit Queen's early material as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the band's debut, Queen (1973) through Jazz (1978). You'll be glad you did, and you'll be sure to do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Hey you got more right than wrong! However, you should revisit Queen's early material as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the band's debut, Queen (1973) through Jazz (1978). You'll be glad you did, and you'll be sure to do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're clawing your way toward the peak. Revisit Queen's early material as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the band's debut, Queen (1973) through Jazz (1978). You'll be glad you did, and you'll be sure to do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™. You'll crush the next one!

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – Solid effort! You're clawing your way toward the mountaintop. You should revisit Queen's early material when you have a little spare time. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the band's debut, Queen (1973) through Jazz (1978). You'll be glad you did, and you'll be sure to do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™. You'll ace the next one!

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Sweeeeeeet! Heading toward the very top of the class!

You got 10 right out of 10 (100%) – CRUSHED IT!!! Freddie would be proud!!

Mercury had half-written "Seven Seas of Rhye" at the time of recording for Queen's first album, so a short clip of it was included there. However, when Queen finished the song, it ended up being much different from what they'd first envisioned. It was the band's first hit single, peaking at number 10 in the UK charts.

Mercury had half-written "Seven Seas of Rhye" at the time of recording for Queen's first album, so a short clip of it was included there. However, when Queen finished the song, it ended up being much different from what they'd first envisioned. It was the band's first hit single, peaking at number 10 in the UK charts.

Question 3 of 10

3. Question

Here we have audio from which Queen track off 1977's News of the World?

]]>Welcome to the debut of the QueenTest™ – a timely arrival just as the blockbuster movie Bohemian Rhapsody takes aim at the Oscars. If you haven't seen it, definitely go check it out!

As a founding member of Britain's rock royalty, Queen boasts a list of accolades and accomplishments that tells the story of one of the world's highest-flying rock bands of all time.

Estimates peg Queen's album sales at more than 200 million (possibly as high as 300 million), which makes the band one of the best-selling musical acts in history.

By 1981, Queen was one of the biggest arena-rock bands ever, packing football and soccer stadiums around the globe. The band's 1981 compilation album Greatest Hits is the United Kingdom's best-selling album ever. It was certified platinum eight times in America! Yes, eight times, that's not a typo.

Queen's performance at the 1985 Live Aid concert has been called one of the greatest moments in rock lore. Freddie Mercury, with his legendary four-octave range, gave the performance of a lifetime!

This test is dedicated to Freddie – a performer who made the world a wilder place. Rest in peace!

The QueenTest™ Vol. 1 – Name That Tune

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Welcome to the maiden voyage of the QueenTest™ – a timely arrival just as the blockbuster movie Bohemian Rhapsody takes aim at the Oscars. If you haven't seen it yet, definitely go check it out!

As a founding member of Britain's rock royalty, Queen's album sales are pegged at more than 200 million (possibly as high as 300 million), which makes the band one of the best-selling musical acts in history.

By 1981, Queen was one of the biggest arena-rock bands ever, packing football and soccer stadiums around the globe. The band's 1981 compilation album Greatest Hits is the United Kingdom's best-selling album ever. It was certified platinum eight times in America! Yes, eight times, that's not a typo.

Queen's performance at the 1985 Live Aid concert has been called one of the greatest moments in live music lore. Freddie Mercury, with his legendary four-octave range, gave the performance of a lifetime!

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You got 1 right out of 10 (10%) –You should revisit the Queen catalog as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the sweet spot of the band's output, starting with Sheer Heart Attack (1974) through to The Game (1980). You'll be glad you did, and you'll do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 2 right out of 10 (20%) –You should revisit the Queen catalog as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the sweet spot of the band's output, starting with Sheer Heart Attack (1974) through to The Game (1980). You'll be glad you did, and you'll do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 3 right out of 10 (30%) – You should revisit the Queen catalog as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the sweet spot of the band's output, starting with Sheer Heart Attack (1974) through to The Game (1980). You'll be glad you did, and you'll do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 4 right out of 10 (40%) – You should revisit the Queen catalog as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the sweet spot of the band's output, starting with Sheer Heart Attack (1974) through to The Game (1980). You'll be glad you did, and you'll do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 5 right out of 10 (50%) – You should revisit the Queen catalog as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the sweet spot of the band's output, starting with Sheer Heart Attack (1974) through to The Game (1980). You'll be glad you did, and you'll do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Hey you got more right than wrong! However, you should revisit the Queen catalog as soon as possible. Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Hit the sweet spot of the band's output, starting with Sheer Heart Attack (1974) through to The Game (1980). You'll be glad you did, and you'll do better on the next volume of the QueenTest™.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're clawing your way toward the peak. Hit the sweet spot of the band's output, starting with Sheer Heart Attack (1974) through to The Game (1980). You'll crush the next one!

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – You're clawing your way toward the mountaintop. Hit the sweet spot of the band's output, starting with Sheer Heart Attack (1974) through to The Game (1980). You'll ace the next one!

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Nice work! Not many folks fall into the elite 90-Percenter Club.

You got 10 right out of 10 (100%) – Damn, you're good!! Nobody's supposed to get them all right!

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Question 1 of 10

1. Question

This audio is pulled from which mega-hit released on Queen's 1977 album News of the World?

Fat Bottomed Girls – It was released along with "Bicycle Race" as a double A-sided single in October of 1978.

The two songs exchange lyric references. In "Fat Bottomed Girls" (toward the end of the song), Mercury shouts "Get on your bikes and ride!" "Bicycle Race" winks back with the line "fat bottomed girls, they'll be riding today."

Incorrect

Fat Bottomed Girls – It was released along with "Bicycle Race" as a double A-sided single in October of 1978.

The two songs exchange lyric references. In "Fat Bottomed Girls" (toward the end of the song), Mercury shouts "Get on your bikes and ride!" "Bicycle Race" winks back with the line "fat bottomed girls, they'll be riding today."

Question 8 of 10

8. Question

Which Queen song – from the band's 1980 album The Game – is heard here? [HINT: It would become the band's first #1 in the United States.]

Bicycle Race – Freddie Mercury was inspired to write the song while watching the 18th stage of the Tour de France as the cyclists passed through Montreux. The band was in town recording Jazz at the Mountain Studios.

Never missing an opportunity to create controversy, Queen produced an official song video featuring a bicycle race with nude female cyclists pedaling through Wembley Stadium. A handful of (silly) countries banned the video.

Incorrect

Bicycle Race – Freddie Mercury was inspired to write the song while watching the 18th stage of the Tour de France as the cyclists passed through Montreux. The band was in town recording Jazz at the Mountain Studios.

Never missing an opportunity to create controversy, Queen produced an official song video featuring a bicycle race with nude female cyclists pedaling through Wembley Stadium. A handful of (silly) countries banned the video.

10. Question

Bohemian Rhapsody – Released as a single on October 31, 1975, the song stayed at #1 for nine weeks on the UK Singles Chart. In just three months, the single sold more than 1 million copies.

And it wasn't over by a long shot! Following Freddie's death in 1991, the single again climbed the UK charts to the #1 slot – and it stayed there for another five weeks. It would become the UK's third best-selling single ever!

If you haven't seen the new film, Bohemian Rhapsody, go check it out! Actor Rami Malek does Freddie proud in his flamboyant, full-throttled portrayal. Did someone say, Oscar?

Incorrect

Bohemian Rhapsody – Released as a single on October 31, 1975, the song stayed at #1 for nine weeks on the UK Singles Chart. In just three months, the single sold more than 1 million copies.

And it wasn't over by a long shot! Following Freddie's death in 1991, the single again climbed the UK charts to the #1 slot – and it stayed there for another five weeks. It would become the UK's third best-selling single ever!

If you haven't seen the new film, Bohemian Rhapsody, go check it out! Actor Rami Malek does Freddie proud in his flamboyant, full-throttled portrayal. Did someone say, Oscar?

]]>The JambandTest™ Vol. 2 – Name That Bandhttps://songmango.com/the-jambandtest-vol-2-name-that-band/
Mon, 28 Jan 2019 14:11:45 +0000https://songmango.com/?p=649956The 2nd volume of the wildly popular JambandTest™ is here to prep you for the upcoming touring season!

]]>Here comes the second installment of the JambandTest™ to prep you for the upcoming spring touring season and the summer festival circuit! Remember, it's never too early to start getting in the right frame of mind!

If you live for long strung-out jams and deep-pocket grooves, you just found your happy place. This second installment of the JambandTest™ focuses on the hottest jambands on tour as well as some of the old-school icons that started the big wheel turning in the '60s.

Now roll up your sleeves and show what you know!

The JambandTest™ Vol. 2 – Name That Band

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Here comes the second installment of the JambandTest™ to prep you for the upcoming spring touring season and the summer festival circuit! Remember, it's never too early to start planning folks!

If you live for long strung-out jams and deep-pocket grooves, you just found your happy place. This second installment of the JambandTest™ focuses on the hottest jambands on tour as well as some of the old-school icons that started the big wheel turning in the wild-eyed '60s.

Now roll up your sleeves and show what you know!

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You need a refresher course on the best jambands on tour. Never too late to get in the game!

Ok, not terrible. Nothing a little self-tutoring won't cure!

You're right on the cusp of greatness. With a little self-tutoring, you'll be at the head of the class!

]]>Back by unruly demand, we have the 12th installment of the AllmansTest™. This one focuses squarely on "Statesboro Blues," a song featuring the legendary slide work of band leader Duane Allman.

"Statesboro Blues" quickly became a staple of ABB live shows, a cover that embodies the band's signature guitar-heavy, blues-soaked Southern rock. Rolling Stone ranked it #9 on its list of the "100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time." While that's pretty damn impressive, many ABB fans continue to wonder why the work of Duane and Dickey Betts isn't posted up at #1.

AllmansTest™ Vol. 12 – Statesboro Blues

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Back by unruly demand, we have the 12th installment of the AllmansTest™. This one focuses squarely on "Statesboro Blues," a song featuring the legendary slide work of band leader Duane Allman.

"Statesboro Blues" quickly became a staple of ABB live shows, a cover that embodies the band's signature guitar-heavy, blues-soaked Southern rock. Rolling Stone ranked it #9 on its list of the "100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time." While that's pretty damn impressive, many ABB fans will continue to wonder why the work of Duane and Dickey Betts isn't at #1!

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You got 1 right out of 10 (10%) –It would seem your Allman Brothers collection either doesn't exist or hasn't seen much play time in the last several years. Dust it off and throw on your headphones. Start with the sweet spot, 1969 to 1975. Work your way from their debut The Allman Brothers Band (1969) through Brothers and Sisters (1973).

Throw on your headphones and turn the volume up loud. Start with Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J. and work your way through The Promise. You'll be glad you did, and you'll do better on the next volume of the BruceTest™.

You got 2 right out of 10 (20%) –It would seem your Allman Brothers collection either doesn't exist or hasn't seen much play time in the last several years. Dust it off and throw on your headphones. Start with the sweet spot, 1969 to 1975. Work your way from their debut The Allman Brothers Band (1969) through Brothers and Sisters (1973).

You got 3 right out of 10 (30%) –It would seem your Allman Brothers collection either doesn't exist or hasn't seen much play time in the last several years. Dust it off and throw on your headphones. Start with the sweet spot, 1969 to 1975. Work your way from their debut The Allman Brothers Band (1969) through Brothers and Sisters (1973).

You got 4 right out of 10 (40%) – It would seem your Allman Brothers collection either doesn't exist or hasn't seen much play time in the last several years. Dust it off and throw on your headphones. Start with the sweet spot, 1969 to 1975. Work your way from their debut The Allman Brothers Band (1969) through Brothers and Sisters (1973).

You got 5 right out of 10 (50%) – It would seem your Allman Brothers collection either doesn't exist or hasn't seen much play time in the last several years. Dust it off and throw on your headphones. Start with the sweet spot, 1969 to 1975. Work your way from their debut The Allman Brothers Band (1969) through Brothers and Sisters (1973).

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Pretty well played. You may want to do a little refresher course on the ABB catalog, but you don't have far to go to become an Allmans expert.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – Pretty well played. You may want to do a little refresher course on the ABB catalog, but you don't have far to go to become an Allmans expert.

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – Pretty damn well played. You may want to do a little refresher course on the ABB catalog, but you don't have far to go to become an Allmans expert.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – You killed it! You're definitely part of the brotherhood.

You got 10 right out of 10 (100%) – You KILLED it!! You're definitely part of the brotherhood now!

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Question 1 of 10

1. Question

The Allman Brothers covered "Statesboro Blues." Here's the opening of the original, written by which of the following blues icons?

[HINT: Bob Dylan paid tribute to the artist in a 1983 song that bore his name.]

Taj Mahal – It's the 1968 cover from Taj Mahal with Jesse Edwin Davis on slide. It would inspire Duane to learn slide guitar and record the song.

"Statesboro Blues" would go on to become a staple of the band's live performances, and a huge fan favorite!

Incorrect

Taj Mahal – It's the 1968 cover from Taj Mahal with Jesse Edwin Davis on slide. It would inspire Duane to learn slide guitar and record the song.

"Statesboro Blues" would go on to become a staple of the band's live performances, and a huge fan favorite!

Question 3 of 10

3. Question

What did Duane Allman use as a slide on "Statesboro Blues" (and other songs)?

Coricidin pill bottle

Socket wrench

Coca-Cola bottleneck

Brass tubing

Correct

Coricidin pill bottle – Coricidin is cold medicine and it came in a clear glass bottle.

Here's Gregg Allman from his autobiography, My Cross to Bear, writing about Duane:

He had washed the label off that pill bottle, poured all the pills out. He put on that Taj Mahal record, with Jesse Ed Davis playing slide on "Statesboro Blues," and started playing along with it. When I'd left those pills by his door, he hadn't known how to play slide. From the moment Duane put that Coricidin bottle on his ring finger, he was just a natural.

Incorrect

Coricidin pill bottle – Coricidin is cold medicine and it came in a clear glass bottle.

Here's Gregg Allman from his autobiography, My Cross to Bear, writing about Duane:

He had washed the label off that pill bottle, poured all the pills out. He put on that Taj Mahal record, with Jesse Ed Davis playing slide on "Statesboro Blues," and started playing along with it. When I'd left those pills by his door, he hadn't known how to play slide. From the moment Duane put that Coricidin bottle on his ring finger, he was just a natural.

Question 4 of 10

4. Question

Here we have the definitive (live) version of "Statesboro Blues." In which year was it recorded and released?

[HINT: It was the same year Duane Allman died from injuries sustained in a devastating motorcycle crash in Macon, GA.]

Warren Haynes – In 1989, the band reunited for a 20th anniversary tour. Original members Gregg Allman, Dickey Betts, Jaimoe and Butch Trucks added guitarist Warren Haynes to the lineup along with bassist Allen Woody and keyboardist Johnny Neel.

Haynes would remain with the band until its dissolution in 2014.

Incorrect

Warren Haynes – In 1989, the band reunited for a 20th anniversary tour. Original members Gregg Allman, Dickey Betts, Jaimoe and Butch Trucks added guitarist Warren Haynes to the lineup along with bassist Allen Woody and keyboardist Johnny Neel.

Haynes would remain with the band until its dissolution in 2014.

Question 7 of 10

7. Question

Who ISN'T mentioned in "Statesboro Blues"?

Uncle John

Sister Lucille

Grandpa

Brother Luke

Correct

Brother Luke – He didn't make the cut but the other three individuals are mentioned:

You got no nerve baby, to turn UNCLE JOHN from your door...

Well, I looked over in the corner, and GRANDPA seemed to have them too...

But if you can't make it baby, your SISTER LUCILLE said she wanna go...

Incorrect

Brother Luke – He didn't make the cut but the other three individuals are mentioned:

You got no nerve baby, to turn UNCLE JOHN from your door...

Well, I looked over in the corner, and GRANDPA seemed to have them too...

But if you can't make it baby, your SISTER LUCILLE said she wanna go...

Arguably, the pairing of Eric Clapton and Duane Allman on Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs (1970) creates rock music's most breathtaking guitar interplay – dueling countermelodies, seamless call-and-response and brazen balls-out solos, some with a slide and some without.

Although you'd expect nothing less than pure platinum when fusing the talents of two of the greatest guitarists that ever lived, Layla exceeds even the loftiest expectations with a stylistic chemistry that makes it seem like Duane can read Eric's mind (and vice versa). It sounds as if they're completing each other's instrumental "sentences."

Each guitarist had an enormous amount of admiration and respect for the other's style and craft. Both were steeped in the blues, but each had his own very different approach and delivery. Clapton was as meticulous and precise in his style as Allman was fluid and free-wheeling. Eric studied the music while Duane chased it.

Critics and fans alike heap praise on Layla – hailing it as the master work of Clapton's illustrious career (so far).

Many have argued convincingly that Layla is the greatest blues-rock album ever made, and Rolling Stone magazine ranked it 117th on its list of "The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time."

The stars aligned to bring Eric and Duane together, but only briefly. Clapton's incognito band, Derek and the Dominos, lasted less than two years with just one studio album to show for it – a brilliant burst that lit up the world. It was truly a wondrous moment in rock history.

Though never an official member of the Dominos, Duane guested on 11 of the 14 tracks on Layla.

The Clapton-Allman Backstory

Here's the legendary Tom Dowd, who produced Layla, describing what seemed to be telepathic interaction between Clapton and Allman during the recording of the album in September of 1970:

There had to be some sort of telepathy going on because I’ve never seen spontaneous inspiration happen at that rate and level. One of them would play something, and the other reacted instantaneously. Never once did either of them have to say, ‘Could you play that again, please?’ It was like two hands in a glove. And they got tremendously off on playing with each other.

Here's the whole backstory on the "Layla" sessions and a play-by-play reenactment of how the title track of the album was mixed. The video is narrated by Dowd – and none other than "God" himself (aka Clapton). Obviously, they can explain it better than I ever could:

Here is Duane's towering, triumphant solo running into the close of Wilson Pickett's cover of "Hey Jude" (1969). Allman's searing work caught the attention of Clapton, and ultimately, prompted the "Layla" sessions.

Telling Duane and Derek Apart

Since both Clapton and Allman play lead guitar – not to mention slide – on Layla (the album), how do we tell the two apart? This has been the source of much confusion and angst over the years.

As a jumping off point, let's look at the guitars they played. Clapton is partial to the Fender Stratocaster while Duane took to the Gibson Les Paul.

The two types of guitars have distinctly different sounds (at least to the trained ear). Duane, in an interview with Guitar World, said this: “The Fender is a little bit thinner and brighter, a sparkling sound, while the Gibson is just a full-tilt screech.”

It's also been said that the sound from Eric's Fender Strat is sharper and "twangier" – more like punching thumbtacks through paper – than Duane's smoother, drawn-out notes from his Gibson Les Paul.

Eric's Strat, "Brownie"

According to producer Dowd, "Layla" – considered Clapton's greatest musical achievement – is comprised of six overlapping guitar tracks. More from Dowd:

There’s an Eric rhythm part; three tracks of Eric playing harmony with himself on the main riff; one of Duane playing that beautiful bottleneck; and one of Duane and Eric locked up, playing countermelodies.

To help distinguish between the two players, here's an isolated track of Duane playing his Gibson Les Paul with his signature (Coricidin) bottleneck slide on "Layla" (the song). You can hear the "screech" (to use Duane's language), as he produces super high-pitched notes that aren't even on the fretboard – they're above it.

Here's Duane's isolated slide solo running into the close of "Layla" – a weeping, soaring passage that will make your heart melt. After all the song was inspired by Eric's then-unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, the wife of friend George Harrison. The song ends magnificently with Allman playing his signature high-pitched slide.

4 Stunning Solos from Duane

Richards and Jones

Although there are other guitar duos that produce seamless and spontaneous interplay – Neil Young and Danny Whitten, Keith Richards and Brian Jones, Dickey Betts and Duane Allman (yes, him again) – none generated more masterful weaving and dueling combinations than Duane and Eric back in September of 1970.

Here are four of Duane's hottest solos on Layla And Other Assorted Love Songs. Let's start with the crown jewel and work our way through some of Duane's other mind-blowing solos on the album.

LAYLA
Derek and the DominosLayla and Other Assorted Love Songs

It's Eric's (I mean Derek's) melancholy masterpiece, but Duane gives it wings to fly. Skydog's guitar work is gorgeous from start to finish, producing the soft honeyed breeze that pushes the song higher. Duane's slide solo that kicks off at about 2:20 soars at 30,000 feet and shoots out into the far reaches of the stratosphere before settling back down to earth at 3:10 (and that's not even the best part of the song). The track's finest instrumental passage comes closer to the end. Check in at 5:40 as Duane's slide solo weeps and wails for all who've loved and lost. It's an absolutely staggering display of guitar prowess! Duane is double-tracked so at times you will hear two slide solos going at the same time (but they are both Allman). He pulls delicate, syrupy-sweet notes from his slide that sound almost like a violin, and he gets the last word with his signature "bird chirp" as the song fades. Yes, he actually produced that sound with his guitar.

WHY DOES LOVE GOT TO BE SO SAD?
Derek and the DominosLayla and Other Assorted Love Songs

If you like blistering guitar duels, you've come to the right place. This is an all-out scorch-fest that'll make your head spin – wave after wave of surging, steaming guitar play. Duane kicks things off with a ferocious solo at 1:17 that screams into a frenzied duel when Eric breaks into the fray at about 1:40. Hold on tight, folks! By 2:33, Duane's lead starts to sound a little like "Blue Sky," which is never a bad thing. Sounds to me like a big shout-out to his regular day-job band, The Allman Brothers. This could be the hottest guitar interplay in rock history. It should certainly be in the conversation.

KEY TO THE HIGHWAY
Derek and the DominosLayla and Other Assorted Love Songs

Duane's smoldering slide solo at the end of "Key To The Highway" – essentially an impromptu jam – is considered his most impressive straight blues work on the album (and for good reason). Allman's slide clinic goes down low at about 6:52, rising slow and snaky from the swamp and then exploding (8:00) into the Delta night.

LITTLE WINGDerek and the DominosLayla and Other Assorted Love Songs

Eric and Duane cut this cover of the Hendrix classic just days before Jimi's tragic death on September 18, 1970. The track was added to the album as a tribute to Clapton's fallen friend and fellow musician. Duane plays lead on this amped-up take on the original, unleashing a triumphant, gale-force solo at 1:57 (without his slide) that Hendrix would've appreciated. Reportedly, Allman played a Les Paul Goldtop for this track, and you can really hear it since he's mixed louder than Clapton. Butterflies and zebras, fairy tales...

]]>Welcome back to Jerry Land, where the sun always shines! The 42nd tie-dyed installment of the DeadTest™ takes a deep dive into the band's epic classic, "Eyes of the World" – a song that pays tribute to the magic in us all.

WARNING: Even veteran Heads will need to be on their game to do well on this one. Perfect scores will be difficult to come by. Be prepared to call songs emerging out of “Eyes.” Those transitions can be tricky!

Wake now, discover that you are the soooong that the mornin' brings...

DeadTest™ Vol. 42 – Eyes of the World

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Welcome back to Jerry Land! This 42nd volume of the DeadTest™ takes a deep dive into the band's epic classic, "Eyes of the World" – a song that pays tribute to the magic in us all.

Wake now, discover that you are the soooong that the mornin' brings...

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You got 1 out of 10 right (10%) – You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 2 out of 10 right (20%) – Not to be insensitive, but it doesn't get much worse than this. Cleary, there's plenty of room for improvement. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 3 out of 10 right (30%) – OK, there's plenty of room for improvement here. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 4 out of 10 right (0%) – OUCH! You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 5 out of 10 right (50%) – Well, you got half of them right. The bad news is you got the other half wrong. Brush up on the big shows. There are worse ways to spend your time.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Not too shabby. I'll be honest, your score reminds me a lot of my high school math tests. I graduated, but just barely.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're clawing your way up the mountain but need to polish your skills a bit before planting the flag at the snow-capped summit.

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – Hey nowwww! Pretty solid work, my friend. You know more than Bobby Weir has forgotten.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Oh hell yesssss! You nailed it, Jerry would be impressed.

You got 10 right out of 10 – CRUSHED IT!! You've made it to the snow-capped summit. Now plant your flag – and go get yourself a cold one, or several!

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Question 1 of 10

1. Question

Here's audio of one of the greatest-ever performances of "Eyes of the World." Where and when did it happen?

]]>StonesTest™ Vol. 11– The Golden Yearshttps://songmango.com/stonestest-vol-11-the-golden-years/
Fri, 26 Oct 2018 21:30:00 +0000http://songmango.com/?p=649101The 11th StonesTest™ focuses on the "Golden Years" – an extraordinary period of output that produced the band's best work.

]]>Welcome back! The 11th installment of the StonesTest™ will assess your knowledge of the band's "Golden Years" (1968-1972) – an extraordinary period of output that encompasses Beggars Banquet (1968), Let It Bleed (1969), Sticky Fingers (1971) and Exile on Main St. (1972).

After the Stones released Their Satanic Majesties Request in December 1967 as a half-baked attempt to challenge the Beatles' psychedelic masterpiece, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, the band returned to what they do best: stripped down blues-flavored rock-n-roll. Beggars Banquet rose to #3 on the UK charts, followed by #1 rankings for Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers and Exile.

The Golden Years produced monster hits like "Sympathy for the Devil," "Street Fighting Man," "Gimme Shelter," "Brown Sugar," "Can't You Hear Me Knocking" and "Shine a Light."

StonesTest™ Vol. 11 – The Golden Years

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Welcome back! The 11th installment of the StonesTest™ will assess your knowledge of the band's "Golden Years" (1968-1972) – an extraordinary period of output that encompasses Beggars Banquet (1968), Let It Bleed (1969), Sticky Fingers (1971) and Exile on Main St. (1972).

After the Stones released Their Satanic Majesties Request in December 1967 as a half-baked attempt to challenge the Beatles' psychedelic masterpiece, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, the band returned to what they do best: stripped down blues-based rock-n-roll. Beggars Banquet rose to #3 on the UK charts, followed by #1 rankings for Let It Bleed, Sticky Fingers and Exile.

The Golden Years produced monster hits like "Sympathy for the Devil," "Street Fighting Man," "Gimme Shelter," "Brown Sugar," "Can't You Hear Me Knocking" and "Shine a Light."

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You got 1 right out of 10 (10%) – You need to go back to school. SongMango recommends some self-tutoring. Bust out the sweet spot of The Rolling Stones' catalog – Beggars Banquet (1968) through Exile on Main St. (1972) – and spend some time with those albums and a decent pair of headphones. That should get you back on track (so to speak). We guarantee a better performance on next week's next StonesTest™.

You got 2 right out of 10 (20%) – You need to go back to school. SongMango recommends some self-tutoring. Bust out the sweet spot of The Rolling Stones' catalog – from Beggars Banquet (1968) through Exile on Main St. (1981) – and spend some time with those albums and a decent pair of headphones. That should get you back on track (so to speak). We guarantee a better performance on next week's next StonesTest™.

You got 3 right out of 10 (30%) – You need to go back to school. SongMango recommends some self-tutoring. Bust out the sweet spot of The Rolling Stones' catalog – let's say, from Beggars Banquet (1968) through Exile on Main St. (1972) – and spend some time with those albums and a decent pair of headphones. That should get you back on track (so to speak). We guarantee a better performance on next week's next StonesTest™.

You got 4 right out of 10 (40%) – You need to go back to school. SongMango recommends some self-tutoring. Bust out the sweet spot of The Rolling Stones' catalog – let's say, from Beggars Banquet (1968) through Exile on Main St. (1972) – and spend some time with those albums and a decent pair of headphones. That should get you back on track (so to speak). We guarantee a better performance on next week's next StonesTest™.

You got 5 right out of 10 (50%) – You need to go back to school. SongMango recommends some self-tutoring. Bust out the sweet spot of The Rolling Stones' catalog – let's say, from Beggars Banquet (1968) through Exile on Main St. (1972) – and spend some time with those albums and a decent pair of headphones. That should get you back on track (so to speak). We guarantee a better performance on next week's next StonesTest™.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – You're getting there, but you could still use a little refresher course. Make a point to listen to The Stones' best stuff from Beggars Banquet (1968) through Exile on Main St. (1972). You'll be glad you did. Check back in next week for the next installment of the StonesTest™. You'll notice an increase in your percentage of correct answers.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're getting there, but you could still use a little refresher course. Make a point to listen to The Stones' best stuff from Beggars Banquet (1968) through Exile on Main St. (1972). You'll be glad you did. Check back in next week for the next installment of the StonesTest™. You'll notice an increase in your percentage of correct answers.

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – You're getting there, but you could still use a little refresher course. Make a point to listen to The Stones' best stuff from Beggars Banquet (1968) through Exile on Main St. (1972). You'll be glad you did. Check back in next week for the next installment of the StonesTest™. You'll notice an increase in your percentage of correct answers.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Impressive score – pat yourself on the back. You could go head to head with Richards himself. You seem to remember a lot of what he's forgotten.

You got 10 right out of 10 (100%) – Impressive score – pat yourself on the back. You could go head to head with Richards himself. You seem to remember a lot of what he's forgotten.

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Question 1 of 10

1. Question

This audio captures the opening of which classic Stones' tune from the early-'70s? [HINT: It's a song that waxes poetic about the raging rabid male libido – a frenzied state Mick Jagger knew (and still knows) a little something about.]

Can't You Hear Me Knocking – It's one of the hardest-rocking tracks on the band's master work, Sticky Fingers (1971). You can't help but imagine that Mick is speaking, or rather singing, from experience as he desperately tries to get upstairs to a lover's flat.

Can't you hear me knockin'Ah, are you safe asleep?Can't you hear me knockin', yeahDown the gas light street, nowCan't you hear me knockin', yeahThrow me down the keysAlright now

Incorrect

Can't You Hear Me Knocking – It's one of the hardest-rocking tracks on the band's master work, Sticky Fingers (1971). You can't help but imagine that Mick is speaking, or rather singing, from experience as he desperately tries to get upstairs to a lover's flat.

Can't you hear me knockin'Ah, are you safe asleep?Can't you hear me knockin', yeahDown the gas light street, nowCan't you hear me knockin', yeahThrow me down the keysAlright now

Question 2 of 10

2. Question

This hot jam is pulled from which song off Exile on Main St.? [HINT: The song includes references to "angels" and "Berber jewelry."]

[EXTRA CREDIT: Name the keyboardist (he also played with the Beatles).]

Shine a Light – It's from side four of Exile on Main St., the double album the Stones recorded in the basement of the rented mansion Nellcote in the south of France. The album is titled Exile on Main St. because the band left England rather quickly for self-imposed exile in Niece after being informed that they owed an enormous amount of money in back taxes.

EXTRA CREDIT: Billy Preston (on piano and organ), and yes he also performed with the Beatles. In fact, he's sometimes referred to as the "Fifth Beatle."

Incorrect

Shine a Light – It's from side four of Exile on Main St., the double album the Stones recorded in the basement of the rented mansion Nellcote in the south of France. The album is titled Exile on Main St. because the band left England rather quickly for self-imposed exile in Niece after being informed that they owed an enormous amount of money in back taxes.

EXTRA CREDIT: Billy Preston (on piano and organ), and yes he also performed with the Beatles. In fact, he's sometimes referred to as the "Fifth Beatle."

Question 3 of 10

3. Question

This audio is pulled from which song from 1968's Beggars Banquet? [HINT: It's a song about a man gripped by fear and impending doom as his wedding hour draws near.]

Dear Doctor – It's the third track on Beggars Banquet. This country-blues song tells the story of a soon-to-be groom who becomes unbearably nervous and physically ill as his wedding draws near. He pleads to his mother for help and asks his doctor to remove his heart – as he tries desperately to drink himself into oblivion.

Oh help me, please mama, I'm sick'ningIt's today that's the day of the plungeOh the gal I'm to marryIs a bow-legged sowI've been soakin' up drink like a sponge

Oh help me, please doctor, I'm damagedThere's a pain where there once was a heartIt's sleepin', it's a beatin'Can't ya please tear it out, and preserve itRight there in that jar?

It all ends happily for the petrified man as his betrothed runs off with his cousin Lou. Phewwwww!

Incorrect

Dear Doctor – It's the third track on Beggars Banquet. This country-blues song tells the story of a soon-to-be groom who becomes unbearably nervous and physically ill as his wedding draws near. He pleads to his mother for help and asks his doctor to remove his heart – as he tries desperately to drink himself into oblivion.

Oh help me, please mama, I'm sick'ningIt's today that's the day of the plungeOh the gal I'm to marryIs a bow-legged sowI've been soakin' up drink like a sponge

Oh help me, please doctor, I'm damagedThere's a pain where there once was a heartIt's sleepin', it's a beatin'Can't ya please tear it out, and preserve itRight there in that jar?

It all ends happily for the petrified man as his betrothed runs off with his cousin Lou. Phewwwww!

Question 4 of 10

4. Question

This solo from Keith Richards is pulled from which epic song from the Rolling Stones' catalog? [HINT: The song includes backing vocals from Merry Clayton, the same woman who sings backup on Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama."]

Gimme Shelter – It's the apocalyptic lead track on Let It Bleed (1969). Jagger said this about the song:

Well, it's a very rough, very violent era. The Vietnam War. Violence on the screens, pillage and burning. And Vietnam was not war as we knew it in the conventional sense.... It was a real nasty war, and people didn't like it. People objected, and people didn't want to fight it ... That's a kind of end-of-the-world song, really.

Here's the song's opening lyrics:

Oh, a storm is threat'ningMy very life todayIf I don't get some shelterOh yeah, I'm gonna fade away

War, children, it's just a shot awayIt's just a shot awayWar, children, it's just a shot awayIt's just a shot away

EXTRA CREDIT: The Vietnam War

Incorrect

Gimme Shelter – It's the apocalyptic lead track on Let It Bleed (1969). Jagger said this about the song:

Well, it's a very rough, very violent era. The Vietnam War. Violence on the screens, pillage and burning. And Vietnam was not war as we knew it in the conventional sense.... It was a real nasty war, and people didn't like it. People objected, and people didn't want to fight it ... That's a kind of end-of-the-world song, really.

Here's the song's opening lyrics:

Oh, a storm is threat'ningMy very life todayIf I don't get some shelterOh yeah, I'm gonna fade away

War, children, it's just a shot awayIt's just a shot awayWar, children, it's just a shot awayIt's just a shot away

EXTRA CREDIT: The Vietnam War

Question 5 of 10

5. Question

Which of the following keyboardists did NOT play with the Rolling Stones?

[EXTRA CREDIT: Name at least one other keyboardist (not listed) who contributed to the Stones.]

Ray Manzarek

Chuck Leavell

Ian Stewart

Nicky Hopkins

Correct

Ray Manzarek – He was the keyboardist for the Doors, and he co-founded the band with frontman Jim Morrison. Manzarek never played with the Stones.

Moonlight Mile – It's the closing track on Sticky Fingers (1971). In his review of the song, Bill Janovitz wrote:

Though the song still referenced drugs and the road life of a pop-music celebrity, it really is a rare example of Jagger letting go of his public persona, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the weariness that accompanies the pressures of keeping up appearances as a sex-drugs-and-rock & roll star.

Incorrect

Moonlight Mile – It's the closing track on Sticky Fingers (1971). In his review of the song, Bill Janovitz wrote:

Though the song still referenced drugs and the road life of a pop-music celebrity, it really is a rare example of Jagger letting go of his public persona, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the weariness that accompanies the pressures of keeping up appearances as a sex-drugs-and-rock & roll star.

]]>Welcome to the 41st installment of the DeadTest™!! This one takes aim at the Grateful Dead's 2nd set, where the songs get stranger and stranger.

It's my guess – knowing how dialed in the SongMango audience is – that we'll see some top-notch scores and speedy completion times on this one. Show what you know!

DeadTest™ Vol. 41 – Songs from 2nd Set

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Welcome to the 41st installment of the DeadTest™!! This one takes aim at the Grateful Dead’s 2nd set, where things get stranger and stranger.

It’s my guess – knowing how dialed in the SongMango audience is – that we’ll see some top-notch scores and speedy completion times on this one. Show what you know, ladies and gents!

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You got 1 out of 10 right (10%) – You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 2 out of 10 right (20%) – Not to be insensitive, but it doesn't get much worse than this. Cleary, there's plenty of room for improvement. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 3 out of 10 right (30%) – OK, there's plenty of room for improvement here. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 4 out of 10 right (0%) – OUCH! You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 5 out of 10 right (50%) – Well, you got half of them right. The bad news is you got the other half wrong. Brush up on the big shows. There are worse ways to spend your time.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Not too shabby. I'll be honest, your score reminds me a lot of my high school math tests. I graduated, but just barely.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're clawing your way up the mountain but need to polish your skills a bit before planting the flag at the snow-capped summit.

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – Hey nowwww! Pretty solid work, my friend. You know more than Bobby Weir has forgotten.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Hot damn! Jerry would be impressed.

You got 10 right out of 10 – You got it just exactly perfect!! You've made it to the snow-capped summit. Now plant your flag – and go get yourself a cold one.

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Question 1 of 10

1. Question

Here we have the Grateful Dead performing which 2nd set staple? [Extra credit: Who's sitting in with the band?]

"The Coolest Thing You'll See All Week" features the ferocious, convulsing energy unleashed inside a Black Flag gig at L.A.'s Olympic Auditorium in 1982. This is exactly the kind of riotous live performance that made Black Flag a pioneering force behind America's hardcore punk scene.

The raw fan-shot footage (below) reveals a band-audience combustion that sends lightning strikes of mayhem snaking through the crowd, like a lit fuse sizzles toward explosion. It's a sight to behold, a glimpse at the nonconformist rebellion that attracted legions of loyal followers in the late-'70s and early-'80s.

Foot-stomping fans delight in unfettered access to the stage, weaving wildly between band members and then hurtling themselves back into the surging crowd. If it wasn't for the instruments and Henry Rollins' mic, you couldn't tell the audience from the band.

Without further ado, here's Black Flag on July 17, 1982, setting fire to "Depression," an original song that highlights the band's embrace of social isolation and neurosis.

Right here, all by myself,I ain't got no one else,The situation is bleeding me,There's no relief for a person like me...

(The YouTube video is labeled incorrectly as being from Santa Monica, 1983 when in fact it's from the Olympic Auditorium, 1982.)

]]>Welcome to another mind-blowing episode of the Rock-N-Roll Twilight Zone as host Richard Syrett interviews SongMango founder Peter Wendel (and others) about Owsley Acid, the Grateful Dead, and the CIA's key role in introducing LSD to the American public.

]]>The 40th volume of the DeadTest™ focuses on the band's silky-smooth transitions, seamlessly weaving one song into another.

Can you call the next song? There ain't a Deadhead alive that doesn't love getting it right!

WARNING: This could be the toughest test of all – the degree of difficulty is off the charts. Shake out the cobwebs, and make sure your ears are clear (no hats or hoods).

DeadTest™ Vol. 40 – Call the Next Song (Part 2)

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Welcome back to Jerry Land! The 40th volume of the DeadTest™ focuses on the band's silky-smooth transitions, seamlessly weaving one song into another.

Can you call the next song? There ain't a Deadhead alive that doesn't love getting it right!

WARNING: This could be the toughest test of all – the degree of difficulty is off the charts. Shake out the cobwebs, and make sure your ears are clear (no hats, hoods or cotton balls).

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You got 1 out of 10 right (10%) – You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 2 out of 10 right (20%) – Not to be insensitive, but it doesn't get much worse than this. Cleary, there's plenty of room for improvement. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 3 out of 10 right (30%) – OK, there's plenty of room for improvement here. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 4 out of 10 right (0%) – OUCH! You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 5 out of 10 right (50%) – Well, you got half of them right. The bad news is you got the other half wrong. Brush up on the big shows. There are worse ways to spend your time.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Not too shabby. I'll be honest, your score reminds me a lot of my high school math tests. I graduated, but just barely.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're clawing your way up the mountain but need to polish your skills a bit before planting the flag at the snow-capped summit.

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – Hey nowwww! Pretty solid work, my friend. You know more than Bobby Weir has forgotten.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Hot damn! Garcia would approve.

You got 10 right out of 10 – You got it just exactly PERRRFECT! You've made it to the top of the class! Now go get yourself a cold one.

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Question 1 of 10

1. Question

This audio captures the Grateful Dead transitioning into which song? [Extra credit if you can name the song the band is transitioning out of.]

]]>"The Coolest Thing You'll See All Week" features Bruce Springsteen's legendary 1978 sit-in with Southside Johnny at Cleveland's intimate Agora Ballroom. Watch the two biggest forces behind the "Jersey Shore sound" go wild, leaving it all on the stage.

The backstory is worth hearing: How two Jersey musicians turned a three-hour delay into a night of pure rock-n-roll bliss for those lucky enough to be there.

Thursday night, August 31, 1978, found both Bruce and Southside Johnny playing separate gigs in Cleveland – Bruce at the Coliseum and Southside at the Agora Ballroom. The story turns on the fact that Bruce and Southside shared a guitarist by the name of Steve Van Zandt (aka Miami Steve and Little Steven).

Bruce and Little Steven

So one show couldn't start until the other one ended because not even Little Steven could be in two different places at once.

So what happened? Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes had to start their show almost three hours late because they had to wait for Steven to wrap up with Bruce across town at the Coliseum. But Van Zandt wasn't the only one to hike over to the Agora Ballroom after the curtain closed at the Coliseum – keyboardist Roy Bitten, saxophonist Clarence Clemons and Bruce himself went along. To say the crowd at the Agora was blown away, would be a huge understatement (even after waiting three hours for the show to start).

It doesn't get any more Jersey than this!

The expanded band sets a simmering fire to the stage as they open with "The Fever," a song Bruce wrote and gave to Southside Johnny for his first album. Next comes a ripping rendition of "I Don't Want to Go Home" (9:05), a Little Steven original. Then they pour gas on the fire with Sam Cooke's "Having a Party" (12:48) – and the house comes down.

]]>DeadTest™ Vol. 39 – Can You Call the Next Song?https://songmango.com/deadtest-vol-39-can-you-call-the-next-song/
Mon, 12 Mar 2018 23:14:48 +0000http://songmango.com/?p=648729The 39th DeadTest™ takes a look at the band's legendary transitions, blending one song into another.

]]>The 39th volume of the DeadTest™ collection dives into the legendary transitions of a band that could seamlessly blend one song into another (and back again). One song rising out of the ashes of another. Even without a head full of LSD, sometimes it was hard to tell where one song ended and another began.

One thing's for sure, I've never met a Deadhead that didn't take great (almost annoying) delight in calling the next song correctly.

WARNING: This is one of the tough test – at least a 8.5 degree of difficulty. You'll need your thinkin' cap and a well-trained ear.

DeadTest™ Vol. 39 – Can You Call the Next Song?

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The 39th volume of the DeadTest™ collection dives into the legendary transitions of a band that could seamlessly blend one song into another (and back again). One song rising out of the ashes of another. Even without a head full of LSD, sometimes it was hard to tell where one song ended and another began.

One thing's for sure, I've never met a Deadhead that didn't take great (almost annoying) delight in calling the next song correctly.

WARNING: This is one tough mama – posting a 9.5 degree of difficulty (out of 10). You'll need your thinkin' cap and a finely tuned ear.

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Grateful Dead0%

You got 1 out of 10 right (10%) – You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 2 out of 10 right (20%) – Not to be insensitive, but it doesn't get much worse than this. Cleary, there's plenty of room for improvement. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 3 out of 10 right (30%) – OK, there's plenty of room for improvement here. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 4 out of 10 right (0%) – OUCH! You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 5 out of 10 right (50%) – Well, you got half of them right. The bad news is you got the other half wrong. Brush up on the big shows. There are worse ways to spend your time.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Not too shabby. I'll be honest, your score reminds me a lot of my high school math tests. I graduated, but just barely.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're clawing your way up the mountain but need to polish your skills a bit before planting the flag at the snow-capped summit.

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – Hey nowwww! Solid work, my friend. You know more than Bobby Weir has forgotten.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Hot damn! Jerome would be impressed.

You got 10 right out of 10 – BOOOOOOM!! Shot yourself straight up to the snow-capped summit. Now plant your flag – and go get yourself a cold one.

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Review

Question 1 of 10

1. Question

Here the Grateful Dead are transitioning into which of the following songs? [Extra credit if you can name the song the band is transitioning out of.]

]]>The 38th installment of the Day-Glo DeadTest™ collection dives into the sound of the hottest Grateful Dead splinter band (for lack of a better term) on tour. Dead & Company joins an elite group of bands – including The Other Ones (1998), The Dead (2003) and Furthur (2009) – that has, at some point, dominated the touring scene for Heads, young and old.

The band consists of former Grateful Dead members Bob Weir (vocals, guitar), Mickey Hart (drums) and Bill Kreutzmann (drums). John Mayer plays lead guitar and sings, Oteil Burbridge is on bass (and sometimes sings) and Jeff Chimenti is on keys.

DeadTest™ Vol. 37 – Dead & Company Shows

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The 38th installment of the Day-Glo DeadTest™ collection dives into the sound of the hottest Grateful Dead splinter band (for lack of a better term) on tour. Dead & Company joins an elite group of bands – including The Other Ones (1998), The Dead (2003) and Furthur (2009) – that has, at some point, dominated the touring scene for Heads, young and old.

Good luck passing this one. If you're used to hearing Jerry playing lead, Dead & Company will take you out of your comfort zone.

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Grateful Dead0%

You got 1 out of 10 right (10%) – You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 2 out of 10 right (20%) – Not to be insensitive, but it doesn't get much worse than this. Cleary, there's plenty of room for improvement. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 3 out of 10 right (30%) – OK, there's plenty of room for improvement here. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 4 out of 10 right (0%) – OUCH! You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 5 out of 10 right (50%) – Well, you got half of them right. The bad news is you got the other half wrong. Brush up on the big shows. There are worse ways to spend your time.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Not too shabby. I'll be honest, your score reminds me a lot of my high school math tests. I graduated, but just barely.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're clawing your way up the mountain but need to polish your skills a bit before planting the flag at the summit.

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – Hey nowwww! Solid work, by any standard. You know more than Bobby Weir has forgotten.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Hot damn! You kicked its assssss!

You got 10 right out of 10 – Just exactly PERRRRFECT!! Pat yourself on the back and take the rest of the day off!

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Review

Question 1 of 10

1. Question

Guitarist John Mayer is heard here soloing during which Grateful Dead song? [HINT: Back in the day, Jerry sang it.]

]]>The ninth installment of the NeilTest™ collection takes a look at some of the guitarist's most memorable solos. For this test, we focus primarily on Neil's guitar wizardry, but we've also sprinkled a couple haunting harmonica solos in there for good measure.

To get a passing grade, you'll need to be familiar with Neil's studio work as well as his famously raucous live sound. He's the Godfather of Grunge, after all!

NeilTest™ Vol. 9 – Simmering Solos

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The ninth installment of the NeilTest™ collection takes a look at some of the artist’s most memorable solos. For this test, we focus primarily on Neil’s guitar wizardry, but we’ve also sprinkled a couple noteworthy harmonica solos in there for good measure.

To get a passing grade, you’ll need to be familiar with Neil’s studio work as well as his famously raucous live sound. He’s the Godfather of Grunge, after all!

Now roll your sleeves up and get to work!

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NeilTest0%

You got 1 right out of 10 (10%) – It's definitely time to dust off the Neil catalog and blast out the neighbors. There are worse things.

You got 2 right out of 10 (20%) – It's definitely time to dust off the Neil catalog and blast out the neighbors. There are worse things.

You got 3 right out of 10 (30%) – It's definitely time to dust off the Neil catalog and blast out the neighbors. There are worse things.

You got 4 right out of 10 (40%) – It's definitely time to dust off the Neil catalog and blast out the neighbors. There are worse things.

You got 5 right out of 10 (50%) – It's definitely time to dust off the Neil catalog and blast out the neighbors. There are worse things.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Not too bad, but you should brush up a bit. Spend some quality time with Neil's catalog from the 1970s. Great stuff!

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – Solid, but you should brush up a bit. Not too bad, but you should brush up a bit. Spend some quality time with Neil's catalog from the 1970s. Great stuff!

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) –Well played. The mountaintop is in sight.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Impressive. You're flying about as close to the sun as you can get without burning up.

You got 10 right out of 10 (100%) – Well, you crrrrrushed the damn thing. You clearly have the feel for Neil!

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Review

Question 1 of 10

1. Question

This live audio captures Neil Young's solo work during which song off American Stars n' Bars (1977)?

Cinnamon Girl – It's the lead track on Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere (1969).

Extra credit: While laid up in bed with a 103-degree fever, Young wrote "Down by the River," "Cowgirl in the Sand" and "Cinnamon Girl" over a 24-hour period. Not bad for a day's work! He may want to get sick more often.

Incorrect

Cinnamon Girl – It's the lead track on Everybody Knows This Is Nowhere (1969).

Extra credit: While laid up in bed with a 103-degree fever, Young wrote "Down by the River," "Cowgirl in the Sand" and "Cinnamon Girl" over a 24-hour period. Not bad for a day's work! He may want to get sick more often.

As the story goes, Young met Manson at the house of Beach Boy Dennis Wilson in 1968. Apparently, Neil was intrigued by the cult leader and the group of hippie girls (known as "The Family") that followed him everywhere.

As the story goes, Young met Manson at the house of Beach Boy Dennis Wilson in 1968. Apparently, Neil was intrigued by the cult leader and the group of hippie girls (known as "The Family") that followed him everywhere.

Question 9 of 10

9. Question

This live audio captures Neil ripping it up during which song that originally appeared on After the Gold Rush?

Director Murray Grigor and cinematographer David Peat capture Young roaming the Glasgow streets, and eventually parking himself on the pavement to play his banjo and harmonica at the entrance of Glasgow's Central Station.

Looking like a strung-out street performer – disheveled in his scarf and deerstalker hat – Neil delivers an unvarnished take on "The Old Laughing Lady," a sparse and haunting song about death. The Grim Reaper in disguise?

They say the old laughing ladyDropped by to callAnd when she leavesShe leaves nothing at all

The power of the lyrics comes through in the eyes of the passers-by, particularly from a few Scottish laughing ladies. After he finishes the song, Neil signs an autograph for a young lass.

]]>Welcome back to Jerry Land! The 37th volume of the psychedelic DeadTest™ collection focuses on specific song performances from the band's biggest New Year's Eve shows – like Winterland 1978 and Oakland 1987. There's nothing better than ringing in the New Year with the Grateful Dead!

CAUTION: There are a few tough ones in here so listen to each clip carefully.

Happy New Year, ladies and gents!!

DeadTest™ Vol. 37 – New Year's Eve Gigs

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Welcome back to Jerry Land! The 37th volume of the psychedelic DeadTest™ collection focuses on specific song performances from the band's biggest New Year's Eve shows – like Winterland 1978 and Oakland 1987.

CAUTION: There are a few tough ones in here so listen to each clip carefully.

Happy New Year, ladies and gents!!

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Grateful Dead0%

You got 1 out of 10 right (10%) – You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 2 out of 10 right (20%) – Not to be insensitive, but it doesn't get much worse than this. Cleary, there's plenty of room for improvement. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 3 out of 10 right (30%) – OK, there's plenty of room for improvement here. You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 4 out of 10 right (0%) – OUCH! You need to use your lightning bolt more before you lose it completely. If you don't use it, you lose it (or at least that's what I've heard).

You got 5 out of 10 right (50%) – Well, you got half of them right. The bad news is you got the other half wrong. Brush up on the big shows. There are worse ways to spend your time.

You got 6 right out of 10 (60%) – Not too shabby. I'll be honest, your score reminds me a lot of my high school math tests. I graduated, but just barely.

You got 7 right out of 10 (70%) – You're clawing your way up the mountain but need to polish your skills a bit before planting the flag at the snow-capped summit.

You got 8 right out of 10 (80%) – Hey nowwww! Pretty solid work, my friend. You know more than Bobby Weir has forgotten.

You got 9 right out of 10 (90%) – Hot damnnnn! Uncle Jer would be impressed.

You got 10 right out of 10 – SLAMMMMMMED!! You've made it to the snow-capped summit. Now plant your flag – and go get yourself a cold one.

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Review

Question 1 of 10

1. Question

This audio from New Year's Eve 1987 captures frontman Jerry Garcia soloing during which song?